What Sandro Tonali really thinks about replacing Casemiro as Ineos weighs up an £80m move – report

Manchester United have just received a frustrating report in their pursuit of Newcastle United’s midfield dynamo, Sandro Tonali. Out of nowhere, reports emerged that Tonali was among the other midfielders United were eyeing, adding him to their transfer wishlist. The Italian, admired for his tenacious defensive work, sharp vision, and ability to transition play quickly, is among those being considered as the ideal heir to Casemiro. Replacing Casemiro Not long ago, news broke that the Brazilian midfielder would be leaving in the summer. His expected departure has shifted the conversation around United’s midfield search to one pressing question: Who is the perfect Casemiro replacement? The ex‑Real Madrid star has had highs and lows at the club, but across this season, his influence has been undeniable. Whenever he has been absent or taken off, United have struggled and looked exposed defensively. Despite not being as athletic as he once was, the Samba star has still dominated the centre of the park. United believe that if they can secure a younger version of him, their midfield could be sorted for years to come. While Elliot Anderson was seen by many as the ideal Casemiro replacement, a move for his services is becoming trickier by the day. Tonali as Anderson’s alternative INEOS may be forced to consider other options, and Tonali has emerged as a viable alternative to the Nottingham Forest man. But according to Give Me Sport, a move for the Newcastle midfielder could be even more complicated. GMS report: “Sandro Tonali ready to turn down Man Utd, Arsenal and Man City to join European giants.” They elaborate: “While Tonali wouldn’t totally discount interest from the top Premier League clubs, it’s understood he would be very keen on a switch to Juve should the opportunity arise.” Frustrating midfield chase Tonali’s stance does United’s transfer ambitions no favours. As determined as they are to bolster their engine room, the 20‑time English champions cannot afford a prolonged saga. INEOS would be wise to target players such as Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, who, when approached before signing, showed keenness to join them. With worrying updates on both Tonali and Anderson, it will be interesting to see how United’s midfield chase reshapes. That said, as tricky as it is to replace Casemiro, INEOS may already have his ready‑made successor within the club. Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.